About Key west art & historical society
Key West Art & Historical Society: Preserving the Rich Culture and History of Key West, FL
Key West is a beautiful island city located at the southernmost point of Florida. It is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. The city has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the early 1800s when it was first settled by Spanish explorers.
Over the years, Key West has been home to many different cultures and communities, each leaving their mark on the city's unique identity. Today, Key West Art & Historical Society (KWAHS) is dedicated to preserving this rich cultural heritage for future generations.
KWAHS was founded in 1949 with a mission to collect, preserve, interpret and exhibit art and historical materials relating to Key West and the Florida Keys. Since then, it has grown into one of the most respected cultural institutions in South Florida.
The society operates four museums in Key West: The Custom House Museum; Fort East Martello Museum; The Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters Museum; and The Tennessee Williams Exhibit. Each museum offers visitors a unique glimpse into different aspects of Key West's history.
The Custom House Museum is KWAHS' flagship museum located in Old Town Key West. It houses an impressive collection of artifacts that tell the story of how this small island community evolved from a sleepy fishing village into one of America's most popular tourist destinations.
Fort East Martello Museum is another must-visit attraction for anyone interested in military history or folk art. This historic fort was built during the Civil War era as part of an effort to defend against Confederate attacks on Union-held territory.
The Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters Museum offers visitors an opportunity to climb up inside one of America's oldest lighthouses still standing today! Built-in 1847 by George Meade (who later became famous as commander at Gettysburg), this lighthouse served as a beacon for ships navigating through dangerous waters around Key West until it was decommissioned in 1969.
Finally, The Tennessee Williams Exhibit showcases memorabilia from one of America's greatest playwrights who called Key west his home during his final years. Visitors can see personal items such as typewriters used by Williams while he wrote some famous plays like "A Streetcar Named Desire" or "Cat on A Hot Tin Roof."
In addition to its museums' collections KWAHS also hosts numerous events throughout each year that celebrate local culture such as concerts featuring local musicians or festivals celebrating Cuban culture which has had significant influence over life here since early days when cigar factories were established here by Cuban immigrants fleeing political turmoil back home .
One thing that sets KWAHS apart from other historical societies is its commitment not only preserving but also promoting contemporary arts scene within community . They offer classes workshops taught by professional artists working across mediums including painting sculpture photography printmaking fiber arts more!
Overall KWAHS plays vital role keeping alive spirit place where past present meet creating vibrant future generations come learn appreciate all makes so special!
kwahs.org
